Advanced Certificate in Immersive News Ethics
Published on June 21, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today I'm thrilled to be talking with Dr. Jane Smith, an expert in immersive journalism and the lead instructor for the new course, "Advanced Certificate in Immersive News Ethics." Dr. Smith, can you tell us a bit about what inspired you to create this course? GUEST: Absolutely, I've seen firsthand how virtual and augmented reality storytelling can present unique ethical challenges for journalists. I wanted to create a course that would help media professionals navigate these complex landscapes and make responsible decisions. HOST: That sounds fascinating. Can you share any personal experiences or insights related to the ethical challenges of immersive journalism? GUEST: Sure. One example is the power of presence in VR. When you put someone in a headset, they're fully immersed in the story. This can create a strong emotional response, and it's crucial for journalists to consider the ethical implications of eliciting such reactions. HOST: That's a great point. Are there any current industry trends that are particularly relevant to your course? GUEST: Yes, the rise of deepfakes and AI-generated content is a major concern. Our course addresses these issues and emphasizes the importance of transparency and truth-telling in immersive environments. HOST: Indeed, those are significant challenges. What about the role of audience engagement in your course? How does that factor in? GUEST: Audience engagement is crucial. We explore how to create immersive experiences that are not only ethical but also engaging and informative for the viewer. It's all about finding the right balance. HOST: Before we wrap up, could you share any challenges you've faced in teaching or learning about immersive news ethics? GUEST: One challenge is staying up-to-date with the rapid pace of technological change. But that's also what makes this field so exciting! HOST: Absolutely. Finally, where do you see the future of immersive news ethics heading? What excites you most about this area? GUEST: I'm excited about the potential for immersive storytelling to create deeper connections between journalists and their audiences. But it's essential that we do so responsibly, with a strong foundation in ethical decision-making. HOST: Dr. Jane Smith, thank you so much for joining us today and sharing your insights on the "Advanced Certificate in Immersive News Ethics." We're looking forward to seeing the positive impact this course will have on the industry. GUEST: Thank you for having me. It's been a pleasure.
